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Frequently Asked Questions

How are items organized in the KSDA?

The Kentucky State Digital Archives begins by arranging digital content by the state or local government agency that created and submitted the records. Next, content is divided into groups by record series. Finally, items are grouped to represent the original accessions received by the Kentucky State Archives.

Should I search or browse the archives?

The method of research you use will depend on what you hope to find. Here is some general guidance:

Specific Item

If you are searching for a specific item, using the search box could be an efficient way to find that item. For example: If you would like to review minutes produced by the Board of Barbering, simply using barbering minutes in the search box will return the specific record series in the Board of Barbering collection, items grouped by year, and individual items.

General Topic

If you are simply searching for anything you can find about a topic using the search box would be a good option. For example: using the word recycling in the search box will return all collections, record series, item groups, and individual items that include the word recycling in the item’s descriptive metadata or full text.

More Like This

When you’ve found a document relating to your topic of interest, take a look at the descriptive information above that item.

All subject terms for each collection and document are linked. Click on a subject of interest to see more items with the same subject from all collections within the digital archives.

Various Records from the Same Agency

If you want to find and review various records created by a single agency, browsing would be a good option. Collections onĀ KSDA’s main page are listed alphabetically by the name of the creating agency without inversion- for example: Board of Nursing. If you would like to find out what records have been submitted from the Board of Nursing, scroll down to the Board of Nursing collection. Once inside the collection, you will be able to view a list of all record series and publications currently available. Remain in the collection while moving in and out of records series and publications by using the “UP” button on the top left of the page.

The titles are too long for the boxes. How do I see the rest?

To view more of names that are too long for the display boxes, use one of the icons on the top right of the page to change the way items are displayed. You can choose from a list view, a table view, or a tile view. By clicking through these options you can select the view that works best for your needs.

What do I do if the item won’t display?

If you find that an item won’t display, simply click the download icon at the top right of the page to open the file in a new window.

How do I order copies of records or photographs?

If you would like to order copies of records or photographs you have found, please visit our How to Request Records from the Archives page for complete information.

Are these records subject to copyright laws?

All materials available through this website are public records as defined by Kentucky State law. However, there are materials available through this website that may have copyright restrictions, which may prevent a user from reproducing the material for the purpose of making a profit, among other restrictions. Copyright protections remain with the creator. It is the responsibility of the user to comply with the U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17 U.S.C.) and obtain all necessary clearances before making commercial, broadcast, or other use of this material. The Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives assumes no responsibility for infraction of copyright laws, invasion of privacy, or any other improper or illegal use that may arise from reproduction. Dates were supplied by the contributor and may represent the date images were created/edited/compiled.

Who do I contact for further assistance?

If you still need assistance with searching or navigating the Kentucky State Digital Archives, please contact Derek Clark via email at derek.clark@ky.gov.

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Have Questions? Contact: Derek.Clark@ky.gov or call (502) 564-1707